Parents in Meerut who can't afford a proper wedding for their daughters will no longer need to take out loans. Under the Uttar Pradesh government's Chief Minister Mass Marriage Scheme, the state will bear the full cost of weddings for 1196 daughters in Meerut this year, and applications for the scheme have already opened.
Money Will Go Directly Into Daughters' Bank Accounts
District Social Welfare Officer Sunil Kumar Singh said the scheme, run by the social welfare department, has proven highly effective. Earlier, brides were given silver anklets and toe rings as wedding gifts, but that practice has now changed. The amount that used to be spent on those silver ornaments will now be transferred directly into the bride's bank account instead. Combined with the rest of the funds, a total of Rs 64,000 will be sent to each daughter's account.
Rs 1 Lakh Spent On Every Couple
Singh explained that the scheme spends a total of Rs 1 lakh on every couple. Of this, Rs 64,000 goes straight into the bride's account, while the remaining amount covers essential items given to the couple during the ceremony as well as the cost of the wedding feast.
Who Qualifies For The Scheme
Only parents whose annual income is up to Rs 3 lakh are eligible to marry off their daughters under this scheme. Singh clarified that the bride must have her own bank account, since the Rs 64,000 grant from the government is transferred only into her account. Parents can apply online by submitting their Aadhaar card, income certificate and other required documents.
Meerut Given A Target Of 1196 Weddings
The state government has set a target of 1196 weddings for Meerut district this year under the Chief Minister Mass Marriage Scheme, aimed at ensuring poor parents face no financial hardship while marrying off their daughters. Parents seeking more details can contact the district Social Welfare Department.
